Just wanted to say "Hello friends"

Ed1937

I've been gone for a while, but that doesn't mean I've forgotten about you. As the song said "You are always on my mind".

So just a little update. It seems like every time I want to do something to help others, something gets in the way. I've been in contact with Jim Mangi (you might know him as "Toad"), the man who brought dementia friendly movies to the states (it began in England). I wanted to get involved in his undertaking, and he told me of a theater about 15 - 20 miles from my home, who might be interested in making this available for those suffering from dementia, their caregivers, friends and families. I contacted the general manager, who told me he was getting ready for a 2 week vacation, but he would get in touch with me. It was actually about a month before I heard from him. He told me Emagine, their headquarters, said they wanted to hold off for about 6 months to evaluate their other theaters who are already doing this.

This actually worked out pretty well for me because I've been having some rather minor worsening with my low blood sugar problems, and my emphysema is bothering me a little more. So I really don't feel comfortable handling this at this time. Maybe at a later date.

But if you are in an area where dementia friendly movies are available, please consider taking advantage of them if possible. This is really a great and needed program. Here's a link for you to understand what it is all about. https://www.emagine-entertainment.com/dementia-friendly/

As always I hope you are finding your way through this difficult stage of life just a little easier because of this wonderful forum. Prayers coming for all.

Rocky2

Hi Ed, It's always good to hear from you. Sorry to hear that you are experiencing some worsening with low blood sugar problems, and the emphysema. However, I'm happy that you describe it as minor. Thanks for sharing the tip on dementia friendly movies. Take care.

Tom

M1

so glad to see your post Ed, I’ve been wondering how you were faring. Have missed your input on so many levels! Hope the health problems stay minor.

ThisLife

Ed, just wanted to say it is good to hear from you. Hoping your health issues resolve a bit. I appreciate all the wisdom you share.

l7pla1w2

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/69239/just-wanted-to-say-hello-friends

Welcome back.

What makes a film "dementia friendly"?

SSHarkey

good to “see” you Ed! Always nice to have your input! Take care of yourself! SH

Jgirl57

Thanks Ed! Hope you feel better soon.

Ed1937

@l7pla1w2 Sorry it took so long to reply. I wound up back in the hospital, but going home now. Here's the link. https://www.emagine-entertainment.com/dementia-friendly/ It basically is what has been called a party where they show a movie. All the movies shown are vetted for content before they are shown, so no drastic violence (which may upset people with dementia), no sex, racial slurs, etc. Musicals are big, and movies like "Field of Dreams" may be shown. People are encouraged to talk, sing along, dance, and whatever else makes for a good time. There also may be prizes, tables for snacks, sources for information, etc. When a theater has their first showing, some of these things might not be available, since the goal is basically to get things started. People attending either have dementia or are closely involved with the patient (friends, family, caretakers, etc. So if there are bizarre behaviors, it is somewhat expected. Cost is only $5 each, and that goes to the theater to help cover costs. The theaters I've seen are exceptionally comfortable and roomy. People in wheelchairs are not forgotten. There may be wheelchair ramps or other things needed by those people. One woman said this was the first "date" she had with her husband in 9 years. I think being involved in helping with something like this would be very satisfying.

Caro_Lynne

Glad to hear you're going home! Hope you are feeling better. So nice to hear from you. How's Suzy?? She must be getting big xo

l7pla1w2

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/209698#Comment_209698

Thanks, Ed. It looks like Emagine is in the Upper Midwest, and I don't see anything in the Metro NY area. However, the list of suitable movies is helpful.

ladyzetta

Dear Ed. It's nice hearing from you, please take care of yourself and check in as otter as you can, Hugs Zetta

GiGi1963

Ed, so happy to see your post. Missed your wisdom and hope you are feeling better.

Ed1937

Thanks for the replies to the thread. Things are good again.

Caro, yes, she's getting bigger now. She's around 50 pounds, and going in tomorrow morning for spaying. I hope it isn't too hard keeping her quiet so she can recover nicely.

Beachfan

Great to hear from you, Ed. (I was worried, but took the “ignorance is bliss” path.) Glad to hear you are still dropping by. Take care of yourself! Thinking of you and praying for your continued good health. ❤️

mrahope

So good to know you are OK, Ed. And I love that your enthusiasm for helping others on this particular journey has remained intact. Hope the problems stay minor and your family is ok.